Product Overview
The PIX Standard series by Schneider Electric comprises air-insulated medium-voltage switchgear units engineered exclusively for the switching and distribution of electrical power. Designed for indoor installation and operation under normal conditions, the switchgear complies with IEC 62271-1: 2017 and is intended for use by manufacturer’s staff or personnel certified for the PIX series.
Voltage Ratings and Technical Parameters
The PIX Standard series is available in three primary voltage classes, each with specific withstand capabilities:
| Parameter | PIX 12 | PIX 17 | PIX 24 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rated Voltage | 12 kV | 17.5 kV | 24 kV |
| Rated Lightning Impulse Withstand Voltage (Up) | 75 kV | 95 kV | 125 kV |
| Rated Power Frequency Withstand Voltage (Ud) | 28 kV | 38 kV | 50 kV |
General Technical Specifications:
- Rated Normal Current (Busbar): Up to 2500 A; up to 3150/4000 A with forced fan cooling.
- Rated Short-Circuit Breaking Current (Isc): 25–40 kA.
- Rated Short-Time Withstand Current (Ip): 63–104 kA (dependent on frequency and model).
- Rated Duration of Short Circuit: 3 seconds.
- Rated Frequency: 50/60 Hz.
Physical Dimensions and Protection
- Panel Dimensions (Typical):
- Height: 2130–2330 mm
- Depth: 1405–1605 mm
- Width: 650 / 750 / 800 / 1000 mm
- Approximate Mass: 820–870 kg.
- Protection Ratings (IEC 60529:2013):
- External Enclosure: IP3X1 (Optional IP4X available).
- Between Compartments: IP2X.
Environmental Conditions
- Ambient Temperature: -5°C to +40°C (higher values available on request).
- Average Temperature (24h): ≤35°C.
- Relative Humidity: ≤95% (24h average); ≤90% (monthly average).
- Installation Altitude: ≤1000 m above sea level.
Compatible Switching Devices
The PIX Standard series supports a comprehensive range of Schneider Electric switching devices:
- EvoPact HVX Vacuum Circuit Breaker (up to 2500 A, 12–24 kV).
- EvoPact UTX Disconnector Truck (up to 24 kV).
- EvoPact MTX Metering Truck.
- CVX Vacuum Contactor.
- Voltage Transformer Truck (rackable in cable compartment).
Functional Configurations
- F: Feeder panels (circuit breaker or disconnector).
- FC: Feeder with capacitor (PIX-M).
- FS: Feeder with motor.
- BSC: Bus section coupler.
- BSR: Bus section riser.
- BME: Busbar metering & busbar earthing.
Applicable Standards
- IEC 62271-1:2017: Common regulations for high-voltage switchgear and control gear.
- EN 50110-1: Operation of electrical equipment.
- IEC 60644:2009 / IEC 60282-1:2009: High-voltage fuse links.
Key Features
Air-Insulated Medium-Voltage Design
The PIX Standard series utilizes air as the primary insulation medium, delivering a reliable and proven solution for medium-voltage power distribution across 12 kV, 17.5 kV, and 24 kV levels.
Modular Panel Architecture
The switchgear offers a comprehensive range of panel types, including feeder panels, bus section couplers, bus risers, metering panels, and busbar earthing configurations. This modularity facilitates flexible system design tailored to specific application requirements.
EvoPact Switching Device Compatibility
Full compatibility with the EvoPact family ensures optimized solutions for diverse switching needs: – HVX vacuum circuit breaker (up to 2500 A). – UTX disconnector truck. – MTX metering truck. – CVX vacuum contactor.
Advanced Arc Fault Protection
Equipped with pressure relief flaps in both the switching device and cable compartments, the system safely directs arc fault gases upward, protecting personnel and surrounding equipment during internal arc events.
Flexible Protection Ratings
Standard protection includes IP3X1 for the external enclosure and IP2X between compartments. Optional IP4X protection is available for enhanced defense against solid objects and limited water ingress.
Versatile Cable Connection Options
Supports front cable connections and optional rear metal-clad cable compartments. Accommodates cable cross-sections from ≤400 mm² to 500/630 mm² with multiple configuration variants.
Comprehensive Voltage Detection Systems
Multiple detection options ensure operational safety: – Pluggable Voltage Detection System (VDS). – Integrated Voltage Detection System (IVIS): Climateproof, no external supply required, determines zero voltage per IEC 61243-5. – Visual Phase Indicator System (VPIS): Flashing indicator lamps for each phase. – Visual Discharge Indicator System (VDIS): For earthed busbar voltage detection.
PowerLogic PD100 Partial Discharge Monitoring
Integration of PowerLogic PD100 enables 24/7 continuous monitoring of partial discharge signals via capacitive couplers. Data is transmitted wirelessly via Zigbee PRO to a concentrator, facilitating predictive maintenance and early fault detection.
Make-Proof Earthing Switch
Features a make-proof earthing switch capable of closing on and carrying short-circuit currents, ensuring safe grounding of energized parts during maintenance.
Seismic and Vibration Qualification
Panel fastening variants with seismic qualification or vibration-proof characteristics are available on request, suitable for seismically active regions or high-vibration environments.
Integrated Low-Voltage Compartment
Each panel includes a dedicated low-voltage compartment for control devices, voltage detection systems, and auxiliary equipment. Ring circuits and optional separate cable ducts streamline wiring and reduce installation time.
Global Standard Compliance
Adherence to IEC 62271-1, EN 50110-1, IEC 60644, and IEC 60282-1 ensures compliance with internationally recognized safety and performance benchmarks.
Eco-Friendly Design and Lifecycle Management
A material and recycling data sheet is provided for end-of-life disposal. Schneider Electric Service Centers offer disposal services to support sustainable lifecycle management.
Flexible Busbar Configurations
Supports single, double, and triple busbar arrangements per phase, with options for busbar section segregation to enhance mechanical strength. Busbar ratings support currents up to 4000 A with forced cooling.
Application Scenarios
Medium Voltage Distribution Networks
Ideal for utility-scale distribution networks, including substation automation, ring main units, and distribution feeders at 12 kV, 17.5 kV, and 24 kV. The modular architecture supports scalable network expansion and grid modernization.
Industrial Facilities and Manufacturing Plants
Provides robust power distribution for chemical plants, refineries, steel mills, and manufacturing facilities. The PIX series ensures reliable operation for process equipment, motor control centers, and auxiliary systems in demanding industrial environments.
Commercial Buildings and Infrastructure
Suitable for large commercial complexes, hospitals, universities, and public infrastructure. Compact panel widths (650–1000 mm) facilitate installation in space-constrained electrical rooms for main incoming feeders and sub-distribution.
Renewable Energy Substations
Designed for solar photovoltaic (PV) farms and wind energy installations requiring medium-voltage collection and step-up switching. Flexible configurations and EvoPact compatibility support diverse renewable energy architectures.
Railway and Transportation Infrastructure
Reliable medium-voltage distribution for railway electrification, metro stations, and transportation hubs. Optional seismic and vibration-proof configurations ensure resilience in critical transportation infrastructure.
Data Centers and Critical Facilities
Delivers secure medium-voltage distribution with comprehensive protection for data centers and telecommunications facilities. Integration with PowerLogic monitoring supports high availability and predictive maintenance strategies.
Mining and Heavy Industry
Rugged construction and IP3X/IP4X protection ratings make the PIX series suitable for mining operations and heavy industrial sites requiring switchgear capable of withstanding harsh environmental conditions.
